The Blackbutt Reserve at Barrack Heights was ablaze last night. Fire and Rescue NSW Illawarra duty commander Chad Wallace said fire crews were called to the reserve - which is surrounded by houses - at midnight on Tuesday. When they arrived, they found around one hectare of bush was well alight, and Insp Wallace said it was fanned by strong winds and aided by the fuel on the ground from recent dry weather. With the assistance of crew and 4WD fire trucks from the Rural Fire Service, the fire was under control in an hour. Insp Wallace said there was no damage to nearby houses. He said the fire served as a reminder for people to be vigilant about the risk from bushfires, whether it be midday or in the middle of the night. Read more: Woman reported missing in Qld found working at Unanderra brothel - and immediately arrested